Course overview
This course focuses on fundamental aspects of the physical chemistry of materials. It addresses novel nanostructured materials, and the recent advances (including fabrication, applications, and limitations) in using these materials in industry, medicine, and telecommunication. Subnano assemblies are discussed, including topics covering aspects of self-assembly of atoms, C60, fullerenes, nanotubes, rare gas clusters, nanodroplets, metal clusters and surface techniques. The physical properties of important general classes of soft materials including colloids, polymers, and liquid crystals is also addressed
Course learning outcomes
- describe and explain the physical properties and applications of important classes of functional materials, including nanostructured optical and electronic materials, sub-nano assemblies of atoms (fullerenes, helium nanodroplets, metal clusters), and soft materials (colloids, surfactants, polymers).
- apply simple physical models to predict the properties of functional materials.
- summarise the assumptions underlying simple physical models for predicting the properties of functional materials and evaluate the accuracy of these models.
- demonstrate proficiency in undertaking individual and/or team-based laboratory investigations using appropriate apparatus and safe laboratory practices, including the collection, analysis, interpretation and communication of results of an experiment.
- design and plan an investigation by selecting and applying appropriate practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools.